1) Will the laid back style be too much stress for the carbon fiber frame?

2) The frame uses a 31.6mm seatpost, and the Redline is 25.4. I have a Shim to convert. From a strength standpoint, is the shim an issue?

Basically, I do not want to ruin the carbon frame. I have never owned one before, and I have read some horrow stories about ruining carbon fiber parts (such as handlebars) due to overtightening bolts, using incompatible stems, etc. I am starting to think that the carbon parts are somewhat fragile.

Do not use that seatpost. The setback on it doesn't worry me too much. But I would never use an undersized seatpost with a shim in anything other than a heavy duty, non-cromoly steel frame. It concentrates all the stress from the seatpost into a tiny area and could cause frame failure.

If you need to move your seat back farther, there are a number of higher end "setback seatposts" that you can look at. If you can find something with the right diameter, that would be a much better option. I know Velo Orange makes one.

On the safety of using a setback seat in general...probably OK, though I might get concerned if you are heavier or doing anything rough with the bike.

Great advice, thanks guys. I actually came to the conclusion that the carbon fiber construction is not for me , I do not have confidence in it. So I was able to cancel my purchase -- the seller was very gracious.

I'm going to go with an aluminum frame, which is what I am used to, and I feel confident in. I'll avoid using a seatpost shim, too!